With dream opportunity at UFC on FUEL TV 2, Alexander Gustafsson all smiles

Sure, he went through the paces of a rapid-fire striking session during Wednesday’s pre-UFC on FUEL TV 2 workouts. And yes, he fielded question after question about his current status as a fast-rising contender.

But the smile was a constant. There are no nerves, no concern ahead of his pending matchup with Thiago Silva (14-2 MMA, 5-2 UFC). This is all about living out a dream.

Gustafsson and Silva meet in the main event of Saturday’s UFC on FUEL TV 2 event, which takes place in Stockholm, hometown of “The Mauler,” and features a FUEL TV-broadcast main card and a Facebook-streamed preliminary card. It’s the UFC’s first visit to Sweden, and Gustafsson is fully aware of the enormity of the moment.

In truth, it’s a dream come true, but one Gustafsson never doubted was possible.

“I always knew they would be here someday,” Gustafsson said. “We have a really big fanbase, so it was just a matter of time.”

Some MMA pundits think the new matchup is actually a better test, and Gustafsson doesn’t necessarily disagree.

“I’m very excited,” Gustafsson said. “Personally, I want to fight Thiago more then ‘Little Nog’ because I think he’s very aggressive, and he has some good power. It’s a good test for me.

“I’m just super-excited for the fight, and it’s going to be a great fight for the fans.”

Some MMA observers think the once-beaten Gustafsson, who currently boasts a four-fight octagon win streak, could launch himself into title contention with an impressive win. But at just 25 years old, the Swede said he’s in no hurry to get to the top – only to become the best.

“It’s too fast,” Gustafsson said. “I don’t think about it now. I’ve got Thiago now. Let’s see what they put in front of me next time.

“I just take one fight at a time and win my fights. That’s the most important.”

Of course, the ever-present smile makes it clear, there’s something a little more important this time around. This is the UFC’s first-ever event in Sweden, and Gustafsson is headlining in front of his countrymen. It’s a special moment, and Gustafsson is loving every minute.

“I’m enjoying it,” Gustafsson said. “At the same time, I try to not make it too big. I try to cool it down a bit, but I’m having fun doing something I love to do.”

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